John Mariano Obituary

MARIANO, John

Atlanta resident, John Salvatore Mariano, born in Middletown, CT, formerly of Suffield and Enfield, CT, passed away peacefully here on July 9, 2025. He was a beloved fiancé, father, grandfather, and friend who touched the lives of many with his kindness and generosity of spirit.

John was a proud graduate of the Hartt School of Music. Following graduation, and known for his outstanding percussion and drum skills, he toured with the Tony Pastor Band as well as the Jimmy Dorsey Band under the direction of Lee Castle.

He continued as a familiar face in the greater Hartford, CT music scene at numerous jazz venues and the Hartford, CT Symphony.

His love of jazz and passion for education led him to be Band Director at Enrico Fermi High School, Enfield, CT, where he often said his years at Fermi were the best of his life. Many of his students went on to be music teachers and professional musicians. In 2016 John was honored by his former students for his significant contributions to the music education program at Fermi.

Additional degrees earned at American International College and UConn brought him the position of Director of Music Education for Enfield, CT.

Following his retirement John was in demand as Adjudicator for MAJE and MICCA festivals. In addition, John played percussion for a tour with the Shrine Circus. He continued to foster younger musicians and loved guiding them.

John was a member of Atlanta Federation of Musicians, Local 148-462.

He leaves behind fiancée, Judith J. Heit, of Atlanta; ex-wife, Nancy Glass, of Suffield, CT; daughter, Carla Correia (Peter), of East Hampton, CT; and grandchildren, Matthew and Olivia; son, John C. Mariano (Judith), of Glastonbury, CT; and grandchildren, Elijah and Charlotte; daughter, Jana Matra (Peter), of Washington Township, NJ, and grandchildren, Michael and Grace; two brothers, William Mariano (JoAnn), of Middletown, CT, and Robert Mariano (Stacy) of Kennebunk, ME. He was predeceased by his brother, Salvatore (Barbara).

A heartfelt thank you to the team at the William Breman Jewish Home of Atlanta and the Weinstein Hospice Group for their superb and attentive care, which brought John much comfort in his final days.

There will be no visitation or calling hours. Burial will be private.

Carmichael Funeral Home in Smyrna, Georgia is in charge of arrangements. www.carmichaelcares.com 770-435-446.